Finally a satisfying solution to this mystery! Thanks to all involved. To Amir, of course, for his great effort, but also to Neumann, who also deserve credit for having invested money and time, even though they were basically right all along. I think that the effort was very worthwhile and that this also showed that at least part of the criticism was justified in essence. It's a big relief that Amir took it seriously in the end, even if I find the sarcasm unnecessary ("riot" etc.). It's probably meant to be funny, whatever...
Interesting that all (most) sides were a little bit right. That's probably why the discussion was so persistent.